Poster 11: Building Belonging: Starting a Unified Robotics Program in Your School or Region

Ready to bring inclusive STEM to life? Learn how to launch a Unified Robotics program that empowers neurodiverse and neurotypical students to work together, solve challenges, and compete with confidence. This session provides a step-by-step guide to creating a Unified Robotics team in conjunction with Special Olympics—no experience required. Based on the success of Pennsylvania’s first regional league, you''ll walk away with resources and real-world tips for organizing teams, adapting challenges, engaging students, and securing support. We''ll cover inclusive coaching strategies, flexible tournament formats, and tools to build community partnerships with families and organizations like Special Olympics. Whether you''re a teacher, administrator, or coach, you’ll leave with a roadmap to create a robotics program where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of thriving in STEM. Attendees will receive access to planning templates, outreach materials, and sample session guides to help jumpstart their own Unified efforts.